Mystics coach praises 'wonderful' Bueckers but pushes Iriafen and Citron for Rookie of the Year
originally appeared on The Sporting News

The 2025 WNBA regular season has officially concluded, and playoffs will begin on Sunday, September 14. That means it's almost time for a few all-important awards to be handed out, including Rookie of the Year.

More:Mystics' Sonia Citron makes Unrivaled decision to cap historic rookie year

While speaking to reporters during the Mystis' exit interviews this week, head coach Sydney Johnson offered praise for the "wonderful" presumed ROY, Paige Bueckers — but insisted his own rookies should be considered for the honor.

Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson said that Paige Bueckers is wonderful, but it would be a shame if Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen don’t get real consideration for Rookie of the Year. Also said the way Citron was officiated this season was “embarrassing.”

— Joshua Valdez (@joshvaldez100) September 10, 2025

"Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson said that Paige Bueckers is wonderful, but it would be a shame if Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen don’t get real consideration for Rookie of the Year," wrote Joshua Valdez via X. "Also said the way Citron was officiated this season was 'embarrassing.'"

Valdez added: "He cited how Citron was constantly fouled without them being called. She mentioned to me the other day how the physicality of the WNBA was the biggest adjustment from college."

All three athletes have enjoyed tremendous rookie seasons. Bueckers leads the pack with 692 points and 194 assists, but Citron was right behind her with 657 points. Iriafen racked up 584 points and 376 rebounds.

#Mystics #coach #praises #039wonderful039 #Bueckers #pushes #Iriafen #Citron #Rookie #Year